Dino Beganovic: A Rising Star in Formula Racing

Dino Beganovic has had an eventful year as he embarks on his inaugural full season in Formula 2 (F2) while also experiencing his first Formula 1 (F1) free practice sessions with the prestigious Ferrari team. During a recent summer break, the young driver participated in an engaging conversation on the Feeder Series Podcast, sharing insights about his racing journey so far and addressing queries from fans and listeners.

The Dream of Formula 1

For many aspiring single-seater racers, competing in Formula 1 is the ultimate aspiration. However, for Beganovic, his initial experience during an F1 race weekend turned into a whirlwind of challenges. The young Swedish driver found himself in a frantic situation, arriving late and flustered for a crucial team meeting before stepping into his first F1 free practice session at the Bahrain Grand Prix. This moment was significant, as it marked a milestone in his racing career, one that he has diligently pursued since he joined the Ferrari Driver Academy in 2020.

Beganovic’s racing journey began with his debut in Italian F4, and over the past five years, he has climbed the competitive ladder with the renowned Prema Racing team. His achievements include securing the Formula Regional Europe Championship title in 2022 and competing fiercely for the F3 championship in 2024. Now, as the most experienced member of the Ferrari Driver Academy, he is racing in his first full season of F2 with Hitech, where he has showcased impressive performances, including two podium finishes in the early rounds and a series of consistent top-eight results.

A Memorable Debut in Formula 1

The anticipation surrounding Beganovic’s participation in F1 was palpable, but the reality of his first free practice session was a chaotic mix of excitement and pressure. During the Feeder Series Podcast episode, he recounted the hectic moments leading up to his F1 debut. "When I was doing those outings in Bahrain and Spielberg, I was so much in the moment that I was almost forgetting a bit how big it was," he reflected. As he recalled the day, he acknowledged the surreal experience of being in the same room with seasoned drivers like Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton.

Beganovic’s first F1 meeting was far from smooth. He arrived late, having been deeply involved in debriefing his F2 engineer after a session. The pressure mounted as he rushed to meet the Ferrari team, where he was greeted by senior engineers, including Jock Clear, who were waiting for him. His dedication to his craft was evident as he juggled eating and discussing feedback with his engineer while rushing to the meeting.

The Challenges of Switching Between F2 and F1

Transitioning between the two racing series proved to be a complex task, especially on Fridays when the F1 practice session occurred after F2’s practice and qualifying sessions. The logistical challenges of moving between paddocks, coupled with the unique demands of each series, added to the pressure. Beganovic’s situation became even more complicated when he received a call from Jérôme d’Ambrosio, the head of the Ferrari academy, inquiring about his whereabouts. Realizing he was late, Beganovic hurried through the F1 paddock, arriving breathless and disheveled to a room filled with engineers and top drivers.

"I opened the door to the meeting room, and there’s all the engineers, Lewis, Charles, and I’m like, ‘Sorry guys, I’m late!’" he recounted. Despite the chaotic start to his F1 experience, Beganovic’s determination to make a positive impression remained strong.

Learning from Experience

After the challenges he faced during his first F1 outing, Beganovic was able to make necessary adjustments for his subsequent appearance at the Austrian Grand Prix. This time, he took proactive steps to ensure he would arrive on time. "It was a lot better when we went to Spielberg," he explained. By arranging for a scooter to transport him from the F2 paddock to the F1 paddock, he minimized the potential for delays. He also developed a more relaxed approach, as he was familiar with the process from his previous experience.

Reflecting on the second outing, he stated, "I was not stressed at all, actually. It sounds weird, but I was not so nervous for my second time because I’d done it one time before; I knew what to expect and what I needed to do for the team." This newfound confidence was crucial as he aimed to deliver strong performances and contribute positively to the team’s objectives, especially with the floor upgrades introduced for both events.

The Path Ahead in Formula 2

As Beganovic continues to navigate his journey in Formula 2, he remains focused on honing his skills and making his mark in the sport. Currently sitting in 10th place in the F2 standings, he is determined to build on his early successes. With two podium finishes and a string of top-eight results, he is well-positioned to continue his ascent in the competitive racing landscape.

Throughout his racing career, Beganovic has demonstrated a commitment to improvement and growth, which will be vital as he prepares for the challenges that lie ahead in the remainder of the F2 season. His ability to adapt and learn from experiences, such as those encountered during his F1 outings, will undoubtedly serve him well as he strives to achieve his ultimate goal of competing at the highest level of motorsport.

The Evolution of a Young Driver

Beganovic’s journey is not just about racing; it’s also about personal growth and evolution as a driver. The experiences he has gathered over the years, from his early days in karting to his current position in F2 and F1, have shaped him into a well-rounded competitor. As he continues to develop his skills, he is also learning the importance of teamwork, communication, and the mental aspects of racing.

The lessons learned from his first F1 practice, including the significance of preparation and time management, are invaluable. As he looks to the future, he understands that every experience, whether positive or challenging, contributes to his growth as a driver. His ability to remain calm under pressure and adapt to new situations will be essential as he competes against some of the best talents in the world.

Looking to the Future

As Dino Beganovic progresses through the remainder of the F2 season, he is keenly aware of the opportunities that lie ahead. With aspirations of one day securing a full-time seat in Formula 1, he is dedicated to showcasing his talent and proving that he belongs at the top level of motorsport. The experiences he is accumulating now will serve as building blocks for his future endeavors.

The support from the Ferrari Driver Academy and his team at Hitech will play a crucial role in his development as a driver. With a strong foundation and a clear vision for his racing career, Beganovic is poised to make significant strides in the coming years. His journey is just beginning, and the motorsport world is watching closely as he continues to rise through the ranks.

In summary, Dino Beganovic’s journey in the world of motorsport is marked by determination, resilience, and growth. As he navigates the challenges of F2 and embraces the opportunities presented by Formula 1, he is laying the groundwork for a successful career in racing. With each passing race, he is one step closer to realizing his dreams and making a lasting impact in the world of motorsport.